One Elementary School’s Career Day Will Make You Wish You Were a Kid Again!

April 23, 2023

By Gene Garaygordobil, Editor, DelanoNow

One Elementary School’s Career Day Will Make You Wish You Were a Kid Again!

The second annual Career Day at Kern Avenue Elementary is not your average school event.

With local community members sharing insights and advice about their professions, students in fourth through sixth grade are discovering that the possibilities are endless when it comes to their future career paths.

U.S. Congressman David Valadao joined area experts on April 21 from a variety of professions, including Matt Clark, an attorney at Chain Cohn Clark, Diana Valenzuela, an engineer, Victor Oropeza, a business owner and barber, Dr. Isaac Sanchez, a family practice physician in Wasco, Travis Bibee, a Wind Wolves Preserve Ranger.

The group also included firefighters from Fire Station 33, U.S. Army personnel, and representatives from California State University Bakersfield and Bakersfield College. The experts talked about their own experiences and gave the young students insightful advice on how to follow their passions.

The students were able to interact with the guests, ask questions, and get a glimpse into the real-world of different careers. They were able to explore various options and learned that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to choosing a career path.

“This event was amazing,” said Megan Johnson, the school counselor who organized the Career Day. “Our students were so engaged and inspired. They were able to see the many possibilities that exist beyond the classroom and I think it opened their eyes to what their future could hold.”

“Kern Avenue Elementary’s Career Day is a prime example of how schools and communities can work together,” said Mayela Bujanda-Medina principal of the school. “We get to provide students with hands-on experiences that empower and inspire them.”

But that’s not all that McFarland USD has to offer. In addition to its regular curriculum, the district has several special programs that help students explore their interests and prepare for their futures. For example, McFarland High School has a globally-ranked robotics program, a specialized agriculture business program, dual enrollment opportunity in partnership with Bakersfield College, a variety of art programs, and career technical education (CTE) programs.

McFarland USD is committed to providing its students with the education and resources they need to succeed. From career days to special programs, the district is helping students explore their interests, develop their skills, and achieve their goals.

“The career day made me wish I was a kid again, especially learning about all the opportunities McFarland USD has to offer!” said Diana Valenzuela, engineer. “Really makes me want to go back to school.”

For more information about Kern Avenue Elementary’s Career Day, contact Megan Johnson at mejohnson@mcfarland.k12.ca.us.